Continents like Asia and Europe, as well as the rest of the world, offer various opportunities for holistic living. One example is Swaswara, located on Om Beach in Gokarna, which provides a holistic living experience. Another option is staying at Piramal Haveli in Shekhawati, a great choice for accommodation. For luxury travel in a pilgrimage city, the Westin Pushkar Resort & Spa is highly recommended. Those interested in experiencing the Lucknow lifestyle can consider staying at Clarks Awadh. Additionally, Serolsar Lake holds a legendary story about Budhi Nagin. In Indian culture, it is customary to save the first ghee made from a cow's milk for worship when a cow gives birth to a calf. Growing up in a family where cows hold significance, I feel blessed.
Whenever a new calf is born, I have observed my mother and grandmother engaging in a specific tradition. Intrigued by their actions, I approached my grandmother to understand the significance of collecting ghee in a jar and why it cannot be consumed by anyone. It was during this conversation that I learned that the initial milk ghee is gathered specifically for Budhi Nagin in Serolsar Lake.
The story of Budhi Nagin starts in the Seraj region of Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh. She was given special abilities by Durga Maa, who is a form of Nava Durga. Budhi Nagin later got married in the Suket area, which is now known as Karsog district in Himachal Pradesh.
Buddhi Nagin decided to visit the local water territory of the Satluj River. Before leaving, she told her mother not to disturb her sleeping children, who were resting in a basket made of husks in the kitchen. In the past, it was common for people to use husk baskets to keep their children, before baby prams became popular.
Eventually, the mother became concerned when the children continued to sleep for an extended period without waking up. Disregarding the advice of Budhi Nagin, the mother decided to remove the blanket. To her surprise, she discovered 5-6 snakes hidden within it. Feeling frightened, she quickly grabbed some ash from the kitchen and threw it onto the snakes. Startled, the snakes scattered in various directions. It is believed that they were not thought about again after this incident.
Upon Buddha Nagin's return, she was devastated to discover that her children were no longer present. Overwhelmed with sorrow, she made the decision to depart from the village. In the Bhiuri village of Karsog, there remains a cherished stone statue within the house where Buddha Nagin resided, which continues to be revered and worshipped.
It is not possible to reconstruct or refurbish this tiny dwelling. Budhi Nagin departed from the house and made his way to Serolsar Lake, located near Jalori Pass in the Banjar Valley of Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh.
Naga Worship
According to local beliefs, Buddhi Nagin is regarded as the mother of Nagdev, the deity of snakes. The people of the area associate Nagas with Shiva. Each Naga is associated with a specific territory and village, which are named after them, such as Chowasi Nag, Hungru Nag, and Jhakad Nag.
These villages have numerous stunning temples built in the traditional Himachali architectural style. These temples are adorned with exquisite wooden carvings. Each year, Nag Devtas, priests, and villagers gather to tour their surroundings. The people generously make donations of any kind to the Nagas. Additionally, they partake in traditional Himachali dances known as Nati.
The mesmerizing meadows surround the lake, creating a picturesque setting. Visitors can witness breathtaking sunsets and marvel at the panoramic view of the mountains from every angle.
Once upon a time, there was a place called Serolsar Lake where an entity named Buddhi Nagin came and settled on a large stone. In that area, there were 60 young girls known as Joginis or Yoginis, who were divided into groups. Some of them were on their way to Shikari Devi in Mandi, while others were heading to Jalori Jot. As they passed by Serolsar Lake, they noticed Buddhi Nagin sitting there. The Joginis decided to approach her and suggested playing a game together.
The assumption was made that the elderly woman would be easily defeated by her opponents. A decision was reached that if Budhi Nagin emerged as the victor in the game, she would consider this location her sacred place. Conversely, if the Joginis were to win, she would vacate the area.
During the game, one of the girls engaged in cheating, which greatly upset Buddi Nagin. As a consequence, Buddi Nagin placed a curse on her, transforming her into a permanent small bird and assigning her the duty of cleaning a small body of water. This small bird is now referred to as Abhi Chidiya.
Buddi Nagin emerged victorious in the game and made the decision to make this place her permanent home. As she ventured through Serolsar, she accidentally dropped a small pot she was carrying, causing a lake to form in that exact location. Therefore, the lake came into existence through this incident.
The rock where Buddi Nagin was seated is currently referred to as Kala Pathar.
The Pandavas, while in exile, arrived at Jalori Pass and eventually found themselves near Serolsar Lake. They decided to cultivate rice in the area surrounding the lake. According to the tale, a mythical creature known as Buddi Nagin appeared before them and then returned to the lake.
The Pandavas retrieved her statue from the lake and placed it on the shore. They constructed a small shrine for her near the lake. Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations. The present temple is the fourth one after being restored.
In the Budhi Nagin Temple, people show their devotion by offering ghee. Budhi Nagin, who is considered the mother of all the Nag Devta in Mandi and Kullu region, had a deep affection for cows. As a way of honoring her, visitors bring ghee to the temple. It is believed that when the ghee is poured inside the temple, it magically reaches the center of the lake where Budhi Nagin resides.
Individuals carry large quantities of ghee to the temple and lake. Once a year, all the Nagdevas from the surrounding area pay a visit to Budhi Nagin on specific occasions. These occasions are foreseen by priests who reside in the vicinity.
The temple cannot be visited during the winter because it is closed as a result of the large amounts
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There is a lack of knowledge regarding the exact depth of Serolsar Lake, making it a mysterious and intriguing natural feature.
Here is another story filled with mystery. A Brahmin and his family were taking a leisurely walk near the lake when he accidentally fell into the water. Despite their efforts, his family was unable to save him. Surprisingly, after three years, the Brahmin returned from the lake. It turns out that Budhi Nagin, a mystical snake woman, had made him promise not to reveal her existence to anyone.
His relatives persistently inquired about his whereabouts and how he managed to survive. Eventually, Brahmin confessed the truth. He revealed that when he fell into the lake, he descended to its depths where he was rescued by Buddi Nagin. Buddi Nagin resided in a magnificent golden palace in the lake. He witnessed her engaged in the process of curd churning, with numerous containers of milk surrounding her.
After he revealed the truth, he passed away. The residents of the village gathered at the lake and witnessed strange happenings. It was deduced that Buddi Nagin desired for the lake to remain undisturbed and pristine. The lake is consistently free of any debris, as not even a single leaf can be seen within its waters.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of India's most stunning lakes by reading further.
Located in the Banjar Valley of the Kullu district, Jalori Pass is a route that links the Kullu and Shimla districts. It was constructed by the British as a means to enter Kullu. The Suket area of Karsog lies in close proximity to this pass.
Jalori Pass is situated at an elevation of 2000 m. During the winter season, Jalori Pass is inaccessible as it gets blocked by a significant amount of snowfall. Banjar Valley, located in the Kullu district, is recognized as an unconventional tourist spot.
The Kullu district is split into three primary valleys: Tirthan, Banjar, and Sainj Valley. The Jalori Pass offers a scenic route to Jibhi, lined with thick deodar trees.
The Anni district of Kullu, located between Jalori's pass and Shimla, is famous for its apple orchards. Visitors can admire the stunning scenery of apple orchards during the season.
Looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life? Rejuvenate yourself in the lap of nature by embarking on a trek through the scenic Himalayas. A mesmerizing journey of 5 kilometers will lead you to the serene Serolsar Lake, nestled in the picturesque Jalori Pass.
Hiking in this area is a simple and straightforward task, as you can simply walk in a straight line through a thick forest filled with deodar and banyan trees. The hike offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the mountains in all directions, and it is particularly renowned for providing an incredibly stunning sunset experience in the mountainous region.
Each season has its own unique characteristics and experiences. In the summertime, nature is alive with vibrant colors, especially noticeable on the tree trunks where mosses grow. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to encounter some of the most uncommon types of plants and animals, such as rare herbs, medicinal plants, and untouched wilderness.
Here are some tips for travelers: If you're looking for affordable accommodation near Jalori Pass, there are plenty of homestays available. Additionally, you can also camp in the meadows of Jalori Pass. The pass is conveniently located and easy to reach.
Pallavi Thakur wrote this post as a component of the IndiTales Internship Program.
This article discusses Bhuira Jams, a business started by women from the mountains. It also mentions the temples from the Pandava era in Karsog Valley, Himachal, and recommends places to visit in Tirthan Valley, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. The comment expresses the reader's desire to visit these places and witness the beauty of Indian culture and tradition after reading the blog. The reader also thanks the author for publishing these kinds of articles.
It's fascinating to learn about the customs and heritage associated with ghee!
Greetings, Corinne!
I found this blog to be very enjoyable, particularly the story about Budhi Nagin.
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